Demand nearly doubles in 2 years at Tri-Cities Union Gospel Mission

The Tri-Cities Union Gospel Mission continues to see a surge in demand for feeding the homeless and others in need.

This year, the Pasco-based organization is on track to more than double the annual number of meals served compared to just two years ago.

In 2019, the mission served 87,000 meals and that reached 128,000 last year.

This year, they have provided nearly 150,000 meals through the month of October.

Executive Director Andrew Porter says the mission couldn’t have met the exponential growth in demand without local support.

“We don’t receive any government funding so everything we do is provided by people, businesses and the community,” he said.

The local support is greatly appreciated, Porter says, especially since this time of year can be particularly difficult for the mission’s clients.

“People who are living in our shelters don’t always get to experience the love and joy of the holidays,” he said. “We try to decorate and be festive as best we can for them.”

Donations — monetary or material — are always welcome, Porter says, as are volunteers.

The mission lists its open volunteer positions and urgent donation needs on its website, tcugm.org.

Currently, with temperatures plummeting, the mission is in need of winter clothing for men, women and children.

Upcoming events are often listed on its Facebook page.

This month, the mission will host another meal box giveaway. The Christmas boxes will be handed out on Dec. 16, starting at 2 p.m.

A banquet starts at 11 a.m. on Christmas Eve and is open to the public.

Financial donations can be given through the Union Gospel Mission’s website or by check to P.O. Box 1443, Pasco WA 99301.